Levelling the Playing Field: Philanthropy as a Catalyst for Inclusion in Sports
At 2into3, we are delighted to see National Governing Bodies (NGBs) in sport recognising the importance of diversifying income streams to ensure long-term sustainability and greater inclusion. The Government has laid a solid foundation through consistent public investment in sport. Yet, the scale of ambition – to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender or background, can experience the benefits of sport – requires additional resources and collaboration.
The growing focus on philanthropic income represents a transformative moment for the sports sector – marking a significant evolution in how sport is funded and delivered, and ultimately a shift towards a more resilient and inclusive funding model.
Why Philanthropy Matters in Sport
Philanthropy brings a distinctive strength to sport: flexibility and innovation. Unlike many public grants, philanthropic income is often unrestricted, empowering organisations to act strategically and respond swiftly to emerging needs.
Government investment – over €1 billion since 2018, with €290 million committed in Budget 2026 – remains vital, but philanthropic giving complements this by enabling NGBs to:
- Innovate in programme design and delivery
- Invest strategically in facilities and participation initiatives
- Respond locally to community-driven needs
The National Philanthropy Policy (2024–2028) reinforces this by recognising philanthropy’s role in complementing public investment, supporting inclusive, community-driven initiatives, and providing unrestricted income that allows organisations to act strategically and adaptively. For sports organisations, this means a powerful opportunity to align their missions with Ireland’s growing culture of giving.
The Role of Fundraising Foundations in Building Donor Trust
The emergence of independent fundraising foundations is central to unlocking philanthropy’s potential.
For example, the newly established Global Ireland Football Foundation represents a pivotal step forward for sports in Ireland. Operating independently, it provides a trusted, transparent platform for long-term private giving, designed to strengthen grassroots football communities, enhance facilities, and broaden accessibility and participation in the sport across Ireland.
Such models build donor trust and confidence, ensuring contributions are well-governed and channelled into projects that make a tangible impact.
This approach not only attracts new supporters but also deepens engagement with those already invested in the future of Irish sport, enabling long-term private giving which will strengthen communities, enhance facilities, and expand participation in sport across the country.
A Shared Vision: Public and Private Investment in Partnership
When public funding and philanthropic giving work hand in hand, Irish sport gains the resources, agility, and vision needed to truly level the playing field.
By embracing philanthropy, NGBs and sports organisations can:
- Accelerate participation and inclusion goals
- Develop sustainable revenue streams beyond grants and sponsorship
- Empower communities to invest directly in the future of their sport
At 2into3, we believe this blended model of investment will be the key to sustaining meaningful, inclusive growth in Irish sport for generations to come.
Interested in Learning More?
2into3 have experience supporting NGBs such as Global Ireland Football Foundation and Irish Sailing Foundation with the establishment of independent fundraising entities.
If you are a sports NGB interested in investing in philanthropic giving, contact Dennis O’Connor, dennis@2into3.com.
